I understand from reading various threads on using AA miles for OW arwards, that they key is often booking as early as possible in order to get seats. Does anyone know the rules around refunding the miles if the tickets are not used? I want to try and secure DFW-CNS-CHC-DFW for next summer and would most likely go via CX to HKG and then down to CNS.

First of all, any feedback on best potential routing? The stopover cities are CNS and CHC for sure and possibly SYD. Time frame is open (Summer 2007, end of May, through late July).

Second, if I reserve the award tickets, but for some reason can not go, what happens to used points and any taxes? I didn't see this addressed on the OW web site and wasn't sure if AA rules applied or what rules covered this.

Any input would be appreciated.